|
|
CITY SNAPSHOT: Prescott: Where It All Began
Nestled comfortably within the largest Ponderosa pine forest in the country, Prescott transcends the Arizona archetype of sizzling summers and flocks of
Snowbirds flying south for the winter. Its mile-high location in the state's central highlands brings "Everybody's Hometown" four mild seasons, an average
daytime temperature of about 70 degrees, and over 300 days of sunshine. Prescott's population of 40,000 would agree that they enjoy the best year-round
weather in Arizona.
Historic Roots
As the country began to expand to the west, Prescott's picturesque setting and abundant natural resources caught the attention of the U.S. Government. In 1864,
under President Lincoln the city was designated as the first capital of the new Arizona Territory. From art to artifacts, that history and beyond is
thoughtfully documented in museums like Sharlot Hall, the
Phippen, and Smoki, all housing highly regarded
traveling and permanent Territorial Days, Victorian Era, Native Indian, and western art collections.
Through the late 19th and early 20th centuries, downtown Prescott was anchored by "Whiskey Row" and its colorful menagerie of shady ladies and iconic visitors
like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday. Well, the ladies and the lawmen are still here-but they're re-enactors keeping the spirit of the times alive for visitors
enchanted with the Old West.
The historic downtown Courthouse Plaza has been honored as one of the Top Ten Public Spaces in the U.S. and remains the heart of Prescott. During the summer
months, the elm shrouded venue beats to five nights of free, live entertainment. For most of the year, the plaza also hosts community events, art and craft
shows and parades. But it is perhaps best known for its annual Christmas Courthouse lighting. The spectacle so captured the imagination of Governor Rose
Mofford that in 1989 she officially proclaimed Prescott as "Arizona's Christmas City."
Adding to Prescott's cultural heritage experience are over 800 buildings on the National Register of Historic Buildings, including the recently restored
500-seat Elks Opera House, numerous historic districts featuring exquisitely restored period
architecture, and of course, the World's Oldest Rodeo.
Outdoor Wonderland
With five scenic lakes and 450 miles of well-maintained trails winding through the city and into the adjacent Prescott National Forest, the press recently
tapped Prescott as a "Top Outdoor Adventure Town." In particular, competitive mountain bikers from all over the world have discovered Prescott's varied
terrain and now compete in the prestigious "Whiskey Off-Road" race.
Prescott's long high season is also a major attraction for golfers. When Phoenix area courses close for fall over seeding, golfers instinctively migrate north
to play Prescott's green, pristine public and private courses.
Business Climate
Prescott is the trade center for the region, with a wide range of retail establishments, professional services and manufacturing plants-all with easy access to
major transportation corridors. Plus, four colleges and a technical training center provide a steady supply of professional and entry-level workers.
Helping facilitate new business and promote entrepreneurship, Prescott offers the assistance of organizations such as the city's Economic Development
Department, Chamber of Commerce, Prescott Downtown Partnership, S.C.O.R.E. and the Northern Arizona Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology.
Lastly, Prescott Municipal Airport is the second busiest in Arizona and its surrounding area is being positioned and developed as the future of new business in
the Quad Cities area.
Arizona Centennial (1912 - 2012)
It all officially began in Prescott! Read more about Arizona's centennial, click here.
"While we are glad today to accept the sacred boon of statehood, we shall take up joyously the full responsibility of the gift. Arizona will never fail when
called upon to contribute her share in patriotism and devotion to the Nation's cause. We feel justified in prophesying this, not because of our material
advancement, but because of the character of our citizens, who have struggled with and conquered the elements of a frontier country." Judge Doan, oration at
the tree-planting in Prescott. Point your browser here
to read more in the Weekly Journal Miner dated February 21, 1912.
|
|
League of Arizona Cities and Towns
1820 W. Washington St.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Phone: 602-258-5786
Fax: 602-253-3874
http://www.azleague.org
|
|
|
